How Much Does It Cost to Excavate for a Pool?

Building a swimming pool starts with one of the biggest jobs—digging. Digging out the space for your pool lays the foundation for everything that follows, from plumbing to the final design.

Excavation costs aren’t the same for every project. Some backyards are easy to dig, while others have rocky ground, tricky slopes, tricky access or even hidden pipes and cables beneath the surface. In this blog, we’ll cover how much it costs to excavate for a pool, what affects price and how to save money without compromising on quality. Whether you're planning or just exploring out of curiosity, read on to avoid costly surprises.

Cost to Excavate for a Pool

The cost to excavate for a pool depends on more than just digging a hole. Every backyard is different and there are plenty of variables that can affect the final price. Some digs are smooth sailing, while others throw a few curveballs.

Hidden pipes, rocky ground or a sloping block can mean extra work. Sometimes, bigger machines are needed or extra care has to be taken to avoid hitting underground utilities. All these little surprises can add to the cost, so getting a proper assessment before the digging starts is a smart move.

How Much Does It Cost to Excavate for a Pool?

Knowing what goes into excavating for a pool can help avoid surprises and keep the project running smoothly. Here’s why it’s worth looking into before the digging begins:

Budgeting

Having an idea of how much you’ll need to excavate for a pool helps plan your finances before the actual excavation begins. Knowing the numbers upfront makes it easier to plan finances and avoid any budget blowouts once work starts.

Preventing Unexpected Costs

Some backyards have hidden challenges like buried pipes, tree roots or rocky ground. Factoring in potential extras helps avoid a nasty shock when the bill arrives.

Selecting the Right Contractor

Not all excavation teams charge the same. Getting a few quotes helps compare prices and make sure you're getting the best mix of quality work and fair pricing.

Site Preparation

The importance of excavation is undeniable. Things like drainage, landscaping and a stable foundation all start with properly preparing the site.

Project Timeline Management

Knowing the estimated timeframe for excavation allows you to plan other parts of the pool project. Delays can throw everything off, so getting a clear timeline from the start keeps things on track.

Environmental Considerations

Disposing of soil correctly is a must. Some councils have strict rules about where and how excess dirt can be removed.

How Much to Excavate for a Pool?: Cost Factors

Excavation costs can vary quite a bit and that’s because every pool site is different. So the answer to the question, “How much does it cost to excavate for a pool?” varies depending on factors like:

Size

Bigger pools require more digging, which means more labour, more equipment and a higher cost to excavate for a pool.

Shape

Rectangular pools are the easiest and cheapest to excavate. Custom shapes with curves or varying depths take more precision, increasing the cost.

Materials and Equipment

Different excavation types require specific tools. For instance, shale or rocky grounds may need jackhammers or rock breakers, which definitely adds up to how much it can cost to excavate for a pool.

Labour Cost

Experienced workers, machine operators and site prep teams all add to the total price. The more complex the job, the more labour is required.

Permits

Some councils require excavation permits before work can begin, which drives up the cost to excavate for a pool.

Time of the Year

Excavation is more expensive during peak building seasons. Planning your project during off-peak times could save money.

Accessibility

If the excavation site is hard to reach, extra equipment may be needed, increasing the overall price.

Underground Utilities

If there are existing pipes, power lines or cables underground, they may need to be relocated before excavation can continue. This can add unexpected costs.

Inspection

A site inspection before excavation helps identify any potential challenges, but this comes at an extra cost.

Dirt Removal

Getting rid of excavated soil isn’t always included in excavation services. Some contractors charge separately for disposal.

Natural Hindrances

Large tree roots, big rocks or sloped land can make excavation more difficult and expensive.

How to Save on Cost to Excavate for a Pool

The cost to excavate for a pool can be pricey, but there are ways to reduce costs without sacrificing quality.

Compare Quotes

Reach out to at least three different excavation companies to compare pricing. A little research can save a lot of money.

Hire Your Own Soil Inspector

Soil conditions affect excavation costs. Hiring an independent inspector to assess your soil can help avoid costly surprises.

Rent a Dumpster for Soil Removal

Some excavation companies charge extra for soil disposal. Renting your own bin might be the cheaper option.

Schedule During Off-Season

Excavation costs can be lower during cooler months when demand for contractors is lower.

Choose an Accessible Location

If possible, place the pool in a spot where excavation equipment can easily access the site. This reduces labour time and costs.

Opt for a Smaller Pool

A compact pool means less digging, fewer materials and lower costs overall.

Stick to Traditional Shapes

A standard rectangular pool is more affordable to excavate than a custom-shaped one with curves and varying depths.

MRN Excavations – Your Excavation Specialist!

Now that you’ve got a clear idea of the factors that affect how much does it cost to excavate for a pool, the next important thing to do is to hire experienced professionals who can do the job right and provide a fair, upfront quote.

MRN Excavations has years of experience in various excavation projects, handling all types of ground conditions. Whether it’s a small backyard pool or a large commercial project in Sydney, Wollongong or Campbelltown, our team is equipped with the right skills and equipment to get the job done without the hassle.

In need of reliable excavation services? Message us for expert advice, a fair cost to excavate for a pool and quality workmanship to kick-start your pool project the right way!